Christian Celebrations p64 - 70 Flashcards
What is the importance of the gifts of the three Magi
They reveal some beliefs about Jesus
Gold - kingship
Frankincense is used in worship so suggests the presence of God
Myrrh is used in burials which refers to Jesus’ death
What is advent
Begins on the 4th Sunday before Christmas
Marks the start of the liturgical church year in the Roman Catholic and Anglican churches
“Advent” means arrival which has been awaited and marks the period of waiting for the celebration of Jesus’ birth and also for the Parousia ( Jesus’ second coming)
How do Christians celebrate Christmas
At midnight on Christmas Eve, they go to midnight mass (Eucharist service)
Christmas Day:
Churches Hold services that celebrate Jesus’ birth
Why is Christmas important to Christians
It is the celebration of Jesus’ incarnation
His birth gave hope to humanity for a new beginning and an eternal life with God after death
Christmas is also a time to reflect on the need for peace in the world and to help those less fortunate
Why is Easter important
It remembers how Jesus brought human salvation through his death and gave hope of an eternal life with God.
As they remember Jesus’ sacrifice they think of the Grace and mercy of God towards them
What is Holy Week
It follows the main events in the last week of Jesus’ life
What is the importance of Lent
It recalls the tummy when Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert and was tempted by Satan but resisted.
By fasting, Christians show that they will also try to resist the temptation
Lent is a preparation for Easter and what it represents for Christians
What is Palm Sunday
start of the Holy Week
Remembers when Jesus came into Jerusalem on a donkey and they wave palm branches
I’m churches, crosses made of palm leaves are given out
It is a time of reflection
What is Maundy Thursday
Remembers Jesus’ last supper with his disciples.
Here he established the Eucharist and predicted that he would be betrayed by one of his disciples
In churches, a service is held where the minister washed people’s feet.
Communion / Eucharist service
Monarch distributes Maundy money
It is important because:
Reminder Jesus came to serve
Reflection
Thankfulness because of Jesus’ death and salvation
What is good Friday
Remembers Jesus’ crucifixion
Service at the cross - service is held so people can reflect on Jesus’ death + reading accounts from gospels of his death
It was gods redemptive act - salvation
Greatest act of mercy to humans as he sacrifices his own son
Shows God understands human suffering as he suffered as Jesus of the cross
What are Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday
Time for Joy as it remembers Jesus’ resurrection
Holy Saturday:
Easter prayer on Saturday evening
Congregation meet outside the church and bonfire is lit
Paschal candle is brought out and each piece of incense represents one of the 5 wounds Jesus received on the cross
Once candle is lit congregation enters the church
Baptisms happen
Easter Sunday:
Candles and banners put up
Minister lit up
It is important because of resurrection and confirms hope in eternal life in heaven with God.
